Adm. John Kirby

John Kirby, retired Navy rear admiral and defense communications advisor, offers military and logistics perspective. John Brennan, former CIA director, provides intelligence and national security analysis. They discuss warnings about Iran’s likely responses, munitions depletion and troop deployments, risks of escalation and troubling political messaging. Short, focused conversation on the unfolding Iran crisis and its wider implications.

John Kirby, retired U.S. Navy rear admiral and former White House national security communications lead. He breaks down why Iran appears to control the Strait of Hormuz. He outlines what is needed to reopen the waterway, from ISR to countering drones and mines. He discusses risks of ground operations, the importance of strategic clarity, and why Pentagon press access matters.

Gary Sick, former NSC Iran adviser who served under Ford, Carter and Reagan, and John Kirby, retired Navy admiral and longtime Pentagon communications official. They discuss the lack of a clear U.S. endgame, risks of sidelining the Iranian people in messaging, military options short of ground invasion, and how shifting U.S. focus affects allies and global security.

Rep. Kevin McCarthy discusses American foreign policy as war breaks out in Israel. Amb. Dennis Ross provides historical context on Hamas' attacks. Adm. John Kirby outlines Biden administration's efforts to recover American hostages.

Edward Wong, New York Times diplomatic correspondent, offers global diplomatic context. Vali Nasr, Iran scholar and former State Department adviser, explains Iranian politics and messaging. John Kirby, former Navy rear admiral and national security communications official, analyzes military strategy and regional security. They discuss Trump's rhetoric, military aims, diplomacy with Iran, China’s role and risks to Gulf security.